Discord has introduced an experimental age verification process that requires users to scan their face or provide identification (ID) before accessing sensitive content. This new feature is being tested in the United Kingdom and Australia, where online platforms are under pressure to implement robust age-checking techniques to safeguard children.
The process applies only to users who haven’t previously verified their age on Discord and will be triggered when they’re exposed to explicit or attempt to change filter settings. Upon exposure, an age verification window will appear, prompting the user to allow face scanning or submit a photo of their ID.
Discord is testing this feature in response to local laws that require online platforms to have measures in place to protect children from accessing sensitive material online. The UK’s Online Safety Act and Australia’s requirements aim to restrict minors from accessing social media platforms entirely.
However, concerns have been raised about the accuracy of face scanning technology, with some users potentially being banned if they appear too young for their age group. Discord assures that users can retry the process or request a manual review if verification is incorrect and that biometric information collected during face scanning will be deleted upon verification. The company also ensures that ID scan data is deleted after verification.
Discord’s experimental age verification process aims to balance user safety with convenience, as it allows users to verify their age without relying on third-party services.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/650493/discord-age-verification-face-id-scan-experiment